Ayush Badoni’s jaw-dropping catch, Rasikh Salam’s bowling prowess, and Abhishek Sharma’s explosive batting led India A to a commanding victory against the United Arab Emirates at Oman’s Al Amerat Cricket Ground on Monday, 21 October 2024. The match, part of an ongoing series, saw India A’s captain Tilak Varma’s strategic decision to field first pay off handsomely, resulting in a comprehensive win with 55 balls to spare.
Bowling Masterclass
India A’s bowlers put on a clinic, dismantling the UAE batting lineup and restricting them to a mere 107 runs in 16.5 overs. Rasikh Salam emerged as the standout performer, snagging three crucial wickets in the final over of the powerplay. His exceptional spell was backed by Ramandeep Singh’s two-wicket haul, while Nehal Wadhera, Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Arora, and Anshul Kamboj each chipped in with a wicket.
Salam, reflecting on his performance, said, “I knew it was the last over of the powerplay, and the batters would try to hit me. So, I aimed to hit the deck hard. The ball was seaming a bit, and there was help from the pitch.” He also highlighted the importance of fielding in their team’s success.
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The Catch That Stole the Show
While the bowlers dominated, it was 24-year-old all-rounder Ayush Badoni who provided the match’s most electrifying moment. In the 15th over, Ramandeep Singh bowled a full-length delivery to UAE’s Muhammad Jawadullah. As Jawadullah attempted a powerful shot towards long-on, Badoni sprinted to his right, dove with incredible agility, and completed a flying catch that left spectators in awe. This dismissal, the UAE’s ninth wicket, saw Jawadullah depart after scoring just 1 run off 2 balls.
Strategic Decision Pays Off
The match began with UAE winning the toss and choosing to bat, a decision that ultimately favoured India A. Captain Tilak Varma had expressed his preference for fielding, anticipating potential dew later in the game. “We preferred to field first as well. Last game, we didn’t expect any dew but hope to get it today,” Varma noted, his strategy proving effective as the match unfolded.
Dominant Chase
In response to UAE’s modest total, India A’s batsmen made light work of the chase, reaching the target in just 10.5 overs. Opener Abhishek Sharma led the charge with a blistering 58 off 24 balls, including six boundaries and four sixes, setting the tone for a comfortable victory.
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Despite losing Prabhsimran Singh early for 8 and captain Tilak Varma for 21, India A remained in control throughout the innings. Nehal Wadhera (6) and Ayush Badoni (12) saw the team home with ease, with Badoni fittingly finishing the match with a six and a four to reach the target of 111/3.
Man of the Match
Rasikh Salam was awarded the Man of the Match for his impressive bowling performance, which set the foundation for India A’s dominant victory.
Looking Ahead
With this win, India A has made it two victories in two matches in the tournament. The team will next face Oman on Wednesday at the same venue, looking to continue their winning streak.
